LPN endorsement to RN (California)?

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Hello everyone!

First time poster, I was wondering if anyone would be able to answer my question or give me advice. I graduated with my LPN (Iowa) in August 2020, I would like to get endorsement out in California but have heard the process takes quite a bit of time. I am currently finishing up my RN (set to be done in August of this year if all goes well) but I was wondering- if I apply for LPN reciprocity and I'm approved- does my LPN license in California automatically get upgraded to RN assuming I take and pass my RN boards (I'll be taking them in IA)?

My hope is to move out to CA as soon as I'm done with my RN and have passed my boards, I have over 6 years of healthcare experience (With 3 of those years being in an emergency department as a PCT and a little over half a year as an LPN on a step down ICU unit) so I'm hoping my experience will count for something when I apply for jobs out there. Has anyone been in a similar situation? Any advice would be appreciated!

 

Thank you!

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1 minute ago, SummerNurse said:

Hello everyone!

First time poster, I was wondering if anyone would be able to answer my question or give me advice. I graduated with my LPN (Iowa) in August 2020, I would like to get endorsement out in California but have heard the process takes quite a bit of time. I am currently finishing up my RN (set to be done in August of this year if all goes well) but I was wondering- if I apply for LPN reciprocity and I'm approved- does my LPN license in California automatically get upgraded to RN assuming I take and pass my RN boards (I'll be taking them in IA)?

Thank you!

California is unique in that it has separate boards for LPNs and RNs. Nothing is upgraded, transferred, etc. You must apply for the specific license you're hoping to receive, and as you're aware of, the wait times are lengthy. For me, the times listed on their site were accurate.

Parts of California are extremely competitive for new graduates. Some even have GPA requirements to apply. LPN experience is positive, but you may find that it doesn't "count" much to a lot of employers- especially so little of it. 

Do your homework and have a firm job offer before you move. The cost of living is no joke.

 

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